My 72 442 (455 engine) has a slight, but perceptible hesitation. At first it sounds a little like a weak battery. But, I know the battery is good and strong. It then turns over and starts normally. The hesitation is maybe a half second to second long, long enough to notice but not much more. The coil and distributor are new, so that is not the problem.

Ideas where I should look? Starter?

 

Once it starts cranking, does it crank fast or slow? Also, are your battery cables new or original? If they are original, one or both could be going bad. I had that problem in my 63 Riv with original cables and it cranked slowly. What a difference when I replaced them. Also, are all your connections good, clean, and tight?

 

Check your timing.

 

Same thing happens to my car - but found that when I step on the gas pedal just once before starting, she starts right up with zero hesitation. It works every time.

 

Battery cables are original and appear to be in good shape, but they are 35+ years old. Connections are good. Timing is ok; just recently installed some new parts and timing is good. Once it starts, it is normal. I have to push the gas pedal a few times if it has been sitting for a week or two but it will start right up otherwise.

 

Battery cables frequently develop internal corrosion. Try new ones. Also, be sure the solenoid on your starter is in good shape. The contact disk inside the solenoid can become pitted over time and build up resistance.

 

Thanks Joe. The negative battery cable looks easy to replace. How difficult is the positive one to get to? If I have to go in there, perhaps I should just replace the solenoid as well?

charles

 

Yep another vote for lead wires then starter........Makes a world of diffrence when theres new copper for the juice..........Jerr

 

I think Joe has hit the issue. Pull the solenoid take it apart and flip the disc. After many starts there are arc burns on the disc that cause bad connections. Use to do this all of the time when guys told me there starters didn't work 90% of the time the starter was fine.

 

while you have the starter out check the brushes. they could be worn down to the plastic holder. This also can give the symptoms you have.